Walking on Eggshells: Navigating Relationships with Someone Who’s “Always Right”

Image Credit: Warner Bros

We all know that one person—the friend, family member, or coworker who is never wrong. Not just in their mind, but in the way they interact with the world. Conversations with them feel like walking through a minefield; one wrong word, one slightly dissenting opinion, and BOOM…you’re in an argument you never signed up for. It’s as if every discussion is a test, and the only acceptable answer is their answer.

Maybe it’s your uncle who insists he knows more about your career than you do. Or a friend who turns even casual chats into debates where they always have the final say. Or perhaps it’s a boss who dismisses every idea that isn’t their own. Over time, you learn to bite your tongue, nod along, and avoid certain topics just to keep the peace. If you’ve ever found yourself treading lightly around someone for fear of their reaction, you know just how exhausting it can be—not just mentally, but emotionally, too.

Why Do They Act This Way?

People who always think they’re right often have deep-seated reasons for their behavior. Some possibilities include:

• Insecurity masked as confidence: They may fear being seen as weak or unintelligent, so they double down on their beliefs.

• Control issues: Feeling in control of the conversation (or you) gives them a sense of stability.

• Lack of self-awareness: They genuinely don’t realize how rigid or difficult they’re being.

• Past reinforcement: If they’ve been rewarded or praised for being “the smart one” or “the authority,” they may feel pressure to maintain that status.

The Eggshell Effect

When dealing with someone like this, interactions become less about genuine connection and more about survival. You start censoring yourself, avoiding certain topics, or even letting them “win” just to keep the peace. Over time, this can lead to:

• Resentment: You bottle up frustration, which may eventually explode in ways you didn’t intend.

• Loss of authenticity: You shrink yourself, suppressing your true thoughts and feelings.

• Emotional exhaustion: The stress of constant vigilance takes a toll on your mental well-being.

Strategies for Dealing with Them

So how do you engage with someone who is incapable of being wrong without losing your sanity?

1. Pick Your Battles

Not every hill is worth dying on. Ask yourself: Is correcting them necessary, or can I let this slide? Some debates just aren’t worth your peace.

2. Use Soft Language

Instead of saying, “You’re wrong,” try, “I see it a little differently” or “That’s an interesting perspective.” This reduces their instinct to go on the defensive.

3. Set Boundaries

If they are combative or dismissive, calmly say, “I’m not comfortable continuing this conversation if we can’t respect each other’s opinions.” You’re not there to be their verbal punching bag.

4. Detach from the Outcome

Some people will never change, no matter how logical or factual your argument is. Accept that you don’t need to prove anything to them.

5. Have an Exit Plan

If they get worked up, be ready to disengage. Say, “Let’s talk about something else,” or even physically remove yourself from the conversation if necessary.

When It’s More Than Just a Personality Quirk

If this person’s behavior crosses into emotional manipulation or verbal abuse, it’s time to reassess the relationship. No one should have to feel like they are constantly tiptoeing around someone else’s mood swings, filtering every word just to avoid conflict. It can be mentally exhausting and emotionally draining to feel like you’re always one wrong comment away from an argument or cold-shoulder treatment. True relationships—whether they’re familial, friendly, or romantic—should allow for open communication, mutual respect, and the ability to disagree without fear of backlash. If you find yourself feeling silenced, anxious, or emotionally worn out by this person’s presence, it may be time to set stronger boundaries or even distance yourself for your own well-being. You deserve to be heard and respected, not constantly walking on eggshells.

The Bottom Line

You can’t control how someone else acts, but you can control your response. Whether it’s through humor, strategic disengagement, or firm boundaries, protecting your peace should always be the priority. And sometimes, the best move is simply learning when to nod, smile, and change the subject.